Attorney Michael L. SaileA dog bite can change a life in an instant. In Pennsylvania, victims often face pain, medical bills, and uncertainty about their legal rights. The state’s laws address strict liability for medical costs, dangerous dog registration, and liability for injuries on private property.
At Cordisco & Saile, LLC, our Pennsylvania dog bite lawyers have over 30 years of experience serving clients in Bucks County, Montgomery County, and Philadelphia, and throughout the commonwealth. With millions recovered for injured clients, our team is committed to holding negligent dog owners accountable and helping you secure the resources you need to recover.
Important Dog Bite Laws in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has several laws that outline dog owner responsibilities and victims’ rights after a bite or attack. Understanding these rules can help you know what to expect if you or a loved one has been injured.
Strict Liability in Pennsylvania Dog Bite Cases
Under Pennsylvania dog bite law, owners are strictly liable for the medical expenses of anyone injured by their dog. This means that even if the dog has never shown aggression before, the owner must still cover treatment. While medical costs are always recoverable, additional damages such as lost wages, pain and suffering, and emotional distress usually require proof of negligence. This structure defines dog owner liability in Pennsylvania, ensuring victims have a path to recovery.
Pennsylvania’s Dangerous Dog Law Requirements
The Pennsylvania dangerous dog law applies when a dog has attacked without provocation, caused severe injury to a person, killed another animal, or has a history of aggression. Owners of dogs labeled as dangerous must follow strict rules, including registering the dog, maintaining $50,000 in liability insurance, posting warning signs, and keeping the dog muzzled and restrained in public. Failing to comply can lead to fines and the possible seizure of the animal.
Licensing Rules Under Pennsylvania Dog Laws
Pennsylvania requires all dogs three months or older to be licensed annually or through a lifetime license. The Pennsylvania dog laws also give state dog wardens the authority to investigate complaints, inspect kennels, and enforce dangerous dog provisions. Owners who ignore licensing or safety rules may face penalties, including fines and potential criminal liability if their dog injures someone.
Recent Updates to Pennsylvania Dog Bite Laws
In 2023, Governor Shapiro updated Pennsylvania’s dog laws for the first time in decades. These new measures took effect in early 2024 and strengthened oversight of dog ownership and safety.
Key updates include:
- License fee increases: Lifetime dog licenses now cost $52.70, and annual licenses have increased by $8.70.
- Higher penalties: New fines apply for unlicensed dogs, with penalties ranging from $100 to $500.
- Industry oversight: Kennel inspections and reporting requirements were enhanced to better protect communities and consumers.
These updates matter because they affect how quickly victims can get help, the penalties negligent owners face, and the level of safety communities can expect moving forward.
What If My Dog Bites Someone on My Property in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, the law still holds owners responsible for injuries, even when the incident takes place on private property. The owner can be liable for medical expenses and other damages if the victim was lawfully present, such as a guest, delivery driver, or worker.
There are limited exceptions. If the person was trespassing or provoked the dog, liability may be reduced. However, the strict liability rule for medical costs usually still applies. Homeowners’ insurance policies may provide coverage for dog bite claims, but some exclude certain breeds or deny coverage if the dog has already been declared dangerous.
Cordisco & Saile’s attorneys can review the details of your situation, explain how the law applies, and help you protect your rights after a dog bite on your property.
Statute of Limitations for Dog Bites in Pennsylvania
Time limits play a critical role in dog bite claims. In Pennsylvania, most victims have two years from the date of the bite to file a lawsuit. Missing this deadline usually means losing the right to pursue compensation, no matter how strong the case may be.
It is important to act quickly after a dog bite. Evidence such as medical records, photographs, and witness statements can fade or disappear over time. Speaking with an experienced attorney soon after the incident helps ensure your claim is filed on time and that vital proof is preserved.
The team at Cordisco & Saile can guide you through the filing process, answer your questions about time limits, and take steps to protect your case from being dismissed on technical grounds.
Get legal help from a team that will never stop fighting for you.
Get Help from Pennsylvania Dog Bite Lawyers
A dog bite can leave lasting physical and emotional scars, as well as financial stress from medical bills and time away from work. You deserve support, not another battle. At Cordisco & Saile, we put people first. Our nationally recognized attorneys have won over $100 million for clients across Pennsylvania, and we never stop fighting for the results our clients deserve.
Whether your case involves strict liability, a dangerous dog designation, or a dispute over insurance coverage, our team has the experience to help you take the next step toward recovery.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a dog attack, call 215-642-2335 or contact us online for a free consultation.
Serving as a personal injury attorney in Pennsylvania, Michael Saile has been honored as both a Brain Injury Top 25 Lawyer by National Trial Lawyers and a 2024 Super Lawyer. He earned his J. D. at Widener University School of Law where he was a member of the Moe Levine Trial Advocacy Honor Society. Saile is also the author of two publications titled “Not Another Bad Lawyer” and “Don’t Crash Again”.
